A review by thebookishpersuasion
What You Wish for, by Katherine Center

5.0

Katherine Center has become one of my favorite authors in the last six months and this is the third book of hers that I have absolutely burned through. I was not disappointed. What You Wish For tells the story of eccentric school librarian Sam and goofball teacher-turned-stickler principal Duncan as they clash and connect over the private school where they both work. Sam has worked there for several years when Duncan, a teacher from her old school who she crushed on for years, shows up as the new principal. However, he's nothing like she remembered and they continuously clash over his ideas for making the school safer at the cost of its individuality and creativity. As they get closer, however, Sam realizes the hurt that lays at the root of his strictness and she starts a mission to help him find joy in life again.

This book was phenomenal. It had poignant humor, emotional impact, hilarious dialogue, and fantastic characters. It's everything I love about contemporary fiction--funny and impactful at the same time. The characters are well rounded, Center brings you right into the world of private school teachers, and you can't help but care deeply about everyone. I highly recommend this book. It was a fantastic read.